Controlled-atmosphere containers (CA containers) are a technology that suppresses respiration and aging of agricultural products through precise control of oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, temperature, and humidity depending on the product type. Unlike standard refrigerated containers, which control only temperature, CA containers also regulate gas composition, ensuring stable quality comparable to air freight even for long-distance sea shipments.
📦 Key effects and calculations:
For exporting melons to Southeast Asia, sea logistics costs at least 2 times less than air freight while maintaining marketable quality at 98%.
The ROI calculation for sweet potatoes shows 161% versus 92% for refrigerated shipments and -66.7% for air shipments.
CO₂ emissions are reduced to 1/50 of the air-freight level.